Craftsman 917.372900 User manual

589801201 Rev. 1 12.23.16 BY Printed in U.S.A.
Model No.
917.372900
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Owner’s Manual
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
450 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine
21" Side-Discharge
• Español, p. 18
Sears Brands Management Corp., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.craftsman.com

2
Warranty....................................................2
Safety Rules ...........................................2-4
Product Specifications..............................2
Assembly / Pre-Operation.........................6
Operation .............................................7-10
Maintenance Schedule ...........................11
Maintenance.......................................11-13
Service and Adjustments........................14
Storage...............................................15-16
Troubleshooting .................................16-17
Repair Parts........................................34-41
Sears Service ...........................Back Cover
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WARRANTY
CRAFTSMAN 2-YEAR FULL WARRANTY
For TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any
defects in material or workmanship. Defective product will receive free repair or
replacement if repair is unavailable.
For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web page:
www.craftsman.com/warranty
This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship.
Warranty coverage does NOT include:
• Expendable parts that can wear out from normal use within the warranty
period, such as blades, blade adapters, belts, filters or spark plugs.
• Product damage resulting from user attempts at product modification or repair
or caused by product accessories.
• Repairs necessary because of accident or failure to operate or maintain this
product according to all supplied instructions.
• Preventative maintenance, or repairs necessary due to improper fuel mixture,
contaminated or stale fuel.
This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial services or
if rented to another person.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
SAFETY RULES
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is
capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the
following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
WARNING: In order to prevent acci-
dental starting when setting up, transport-
ing, adjusting or making repairs, always
disconnect spark plug wire and place wire
where it cannot come in contact with plug.
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 0.8 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Capacity: 16 Ounces
Oil Type (API SJ–SN): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 10W-30 (below 32°F)
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC (Gap: .030")
Blade Bolt Torque: 35–40 ft. lbs.
•The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
43
SERVICE NOTES

42
SERVICE NOTES
3
CAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely
hot during operation and
remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid
severe burns on contact,
stay away from these areas.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
WARNING: This lawn mower is
equipped with an internal combustion
engine and should not be used on or near
any unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered land unless the
engine’s exhaust system is equipped with
a spark arrester meeting applicable local
or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is
used, it should be maintained in effective
working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is re-
quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor-
nia Public Resources Code). Other states
may have similar laws. Federal laws apply
on federal lands. A spark arrester for the
muffler is available through your nearest
Sears Parts & Repair Center (See the RE-
PAIR PARTS section of this manual).
I. CHILDREN
WARNING: CHILDREN CAN
BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR
KILLED BY THIS EQUIPMENT.
Carefully read and follow all of
the safety instructions below.
TheAmericanAcademyof Pediatricsrecom-
mendsthatchildren be a minimumof12year
of age before operating a pedestrian con-
trolledlawnmowerandaminimumof16years
ofage before operating a riding lawn mower.
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
notalerttothe presence of children.Children
are often attracted to the machine and the
mowing activity. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of a re-
sponsible adult other than the operator.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Beforeandwhile walking backwards,look
behind and down for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
II. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly
familiar with the controls and the proper
use of the machine before starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-
charge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who
are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by
blade. Stay behind the handle when the
engine (motor) is running.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Do not operate machine barefooted or
while wearing sandals. Always wear
substantial footwear with good ankle
support while mowing.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while moving
backwards.
• Never direct discharged material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material
against a wall or obstruction. Material
may richochet back toward the opera-
tor. Stop blade when crossing gravel
surfaces.
• Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories ap-
proved by the manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
• Never leave a running machine unat-
tended.
• Stop the engine (motor) and wait until
the blade comes to a complete stop
before cleaning the machine, removing
the grass catcher, or unclogging the
discharge chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.

4
• Disengage the drive system, if so
equipped, before starting the engine
(motor).
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of
trouble.
• Always wear eye protection when oper-
ating machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
• When loading or unloading this ma-
chine, do not exceed the maximum
recommended operation angle of 15°.
• Wear proper Personal Protective Equip-
ment (PPE) while operating this ma-
chine, including (at a minimum) sturdy
footwear, eye protection, and hearing
protection. Do not mow in shorts or
open toed footwear.
Always let someone know you are outside
mowing.
III. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip &
fall accidents, which can result in severe
injury. All slopes require extra caution. If
you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps or hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could cause
a slip and fall accident. Tall grass can
hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches
or embankments. You could lose your
footing or balance.
• Do not mow on wet grass or exces-
sively steep slopes. Poor footing could
cause a slip and fall accident.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
To avoid personal injury or property dam-
age, use extreme care in handling gaso-
line. Gasoline is extremely flammable and
the vapors are explosive.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running.
• Allow engine to cool before refueling.
• Never refuel the machine indoors.
• Never store the machine or fuel contain-
er where there is an open flame, spark
or pilot light such as a water heater or
on other appliances.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the
ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas
cap and tighten securely.
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run machine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent acciden-
tal starting.
•Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
Never do anything to interfere with the
intended function of a safety device or
reduce the protection provided by a
safety device.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuelspill-
age.Allowmachineto cool before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height ad-
justments while the engine is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
tion labels, as necessary. 41
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
505 793515 Nut (Governor Control Lever)
522 590580 Plug-Dipstick/Fill
535 799579 Filter-Air Cleaner Foam
562 793514 Bolt
(Governor Control Lever)
598 593291 Shim-End Play (Used with
Nylon Timing Gear)
601 791850 Clamp-Hose (Green)
608 593959 Starter-Rewind
613 590562 Screw (Muffler)
615 690340 Retainer-Governor Shaft
616 590516 Crank-Governor
617 270344s Seal-O Ring
(Intake Manifold)
621 692310 Switch-Stop
623 799581 Seal-O Ring
(Carburetor Spacer)
635 692076 Boot-Spark Plug
668 590546 Spacer
718 690959 Pin-Locating
(Crankcase Cover / Sump)
724 697478 Retainer-Seal
741 796210 Gear-Timing (Nylon)
745 691146 Screw (Brake) (#10-32 x .86)
745A 690859 Screw (Brake) (#10-32 x .5)
770 595355 Kit-Rewind/Blower Housing
830 590536 Stud-Rocker Arm
832 592709 Guard-Muffler
836 690661 Screw (Muffler Guard)
(#8-18 x .5)
850 100106 Sealant-Silicone
868 590534 Seal-Valve (Intake)
875 595663 Base-Air Cleaner
914 591103 Screw (Rocker Cover)
922 692135 Spring-Brake
923 691487 Brake
930 590585 Guard-Rewind
968 595660 Cover-Air Cleaner
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
972 596251 Tank-Fuel
975 594632 Bowl-Float
976 594281 Primer-Carburetor
1022 595341 Gasket-Rocker Cover
1023 595349 Cover-Rocker Arm
1026 590515 Rod-Push
(Intake and Exhaust)
1029 590526 Arm-Rocker (Exhaust)
1029A 590527 Arm-Rocker (Intake)
1036 - - - Label-Emissions
(Available From A
Briggs & Stratton
Authorized Dealer)
1127 590554 Screw (Float Bowl to
Carburetor Body)
1238 590562 Screw (Carburetor Spacer)
(M5 x 17mm)
1263 697124 Reed-Breather
1264 793453 Screw (Breather Reed)
1329 N/A Replacement Engine
(Not Available
At This Printing)
1330 N/A Repair Manual (Not
Available At This Printing)
1395 590552 Screw (Air Cleaner Base to
Carburetor) (M4 x 14mm)
1472 691876 Seal-O Ring
(Dipstick / Fill Plug)
- - 398067 Spark Arrester
(available accessory)
Carburetor Overhaul Kit Key No. 121
Engine Gasket Set Key No. 358
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.
inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
MODEL NUMBER 8P502-0110-F1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE

40
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 592048 Cylinder Assembly
3 299819s Seal-Oil (Magneto Side)
4 590569 Sump-Engine
5 592641 Head-Cylinder
7 799586 Gasket-Cylinder Head
8 791781 Breather Assembly
11 590522 Tube-Breather
12 799587 Gasket-Crankcase
13 590512 Screw (Cylinder Head)
16 590538 Crankshaft
20 391483s Seal-Oil (PTO Side)
22 692551 Screw (Crankcase Cover /
Sump) (1/4-20 x 1.19)
22A 590763 Screw (Crankcase Cover /
Sump) (1/4-20 x .78)
23 590544 Flywheel
24 222698s Key-Flywheel (Aluminum)
25 591975 Piston Assembly (Standard)
26 591976 Ring Set (Standard)
27 691588 Lock-Piston Pin
28 699659 Pin-Piston
29 590518 Rod-Connecting
32 691664 Screw (Connecting Rod)
33 590531 Valve-Exhaust
34 590530 Valve-Intake
35 590532 Spring-Valve (Intake)
36 590532 Spring-Valve (Exhaust)
37 594729 Guard-Flywheel
40 590528 Retainer-Valve
43 594560 Slinger-Governor/Oil
45 590514 Tappet-Valve
46 592968 Camshaft
48 N/A Short Block (Not Available
At This Printing)
58 591108 Rope-Starter
60 691915 Grip-Starter Rope
78 793480 Screw (Flywheel Guard)
(M5 x 14mm)
KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
104 590558 Pin-Float Hinge
105 594581 Valve-Float Needle
117 592794 Jet-Main (Standard)
118 592526 Jet-Main (High Altitude)
121 594636 Kit-Carburetor Overhaul
122 590549 Spacer-Carburetor
125 593261 Carburetor
133 591120 Float-Carburetor
137 594633 Gasket-Float Bowl
155 590529 Plate-Cylinder Head
163 799580 Gasket-Air Cleaner
177 691876 Seal-O Ring (Dipstick)
187 791766 Line-Fuel (Cut To Length)
188 793480 Screw (Control Bracket)
192 590535 Adjuster-Rocker Arm
202 590517 Link-Mechanical Governor
209 596238 Spring-Governor (Green)
217 590740 Spring-Choke Return
222 691446 Bracket-Control
227 590520 Lever-Governor Control
238 590533 Cap-Valve
300 590565 Muffler
304 593961 Housing-Blower
305 590586 Screw (Blower Housing)
(M5 x 29.8mm)
318 793480 Screw (Mounting Bracket)
(M5 x 14mm)
332 690662 Nut (Flywheel)
333 593872 Armature-Magneto
334 691061 Screw (Magneto Armature)
(#8-32 x .9)
337 692051 Plug-Spark
356 692390 Wire-Stop
358 595350 Gasket Set-Engine
404 690272 Washer (Governor Crank)
455 593960 Cup-Flywheel
493 593330 Bracket-Mounting
(Carburetor)
MODEL NUMBER 8P502-0110-F1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
5
ACCESSORIES
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service
centers. SOME OF THESE ACCESSORIES MAY NOT APPLY TO YOUR LAWN MOWER.
Congratulations on making a smart pur-
chase. Your new Craftsman® product is
designed and manufactured for years of
dependable operation. But like all prod-
ucts, it may require repair from time to
time. That’s when having a Repair Protec-
tion Agreement can save you money and
aggravation.
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement
now and protect yourself from unexpected
hassle and expense.
Here’s what’s included in the Agreement:
• Expert service by our 12,000 profe-
sional repair specialists.
• Unlimited service and no charge for
parts and labor on all covered repairs.
• Product replacement if your covered
product can’t be fixed.
• Discount of 25% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, 25%
off regular price of preventive mainte-
nance check.
• Fast help by phone – phone sup-
port from a Sears representative on
products requiring in-home repair, plus
convenient repair scheduling.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a
simple phone call is all that it takes for you
to schedule service. You can call anytime
day or night, or schedule a service ap-
pointment online.
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair
specialists,who haveaccess toover 4.5mil-
lionqualitypartsand accessories. That’s the
kind of professionalism you can count on to
help prolong the life of your new purchase
for years to come. Purchase your Repair
Protection Agreement today!
Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information
call 1-800-827-6655.
Sears Installation Service
For Sears professional installation of home
appliances, garage door openers, water
heaters, and other major home items, in
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
Repair Protection Agreements

6
ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION
Read these instructions and this manual
in its entirety before you attempt to as-
semble or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been assem-
bled at the factory with the exception of
those parts left unassembled for shipping
purposes. To ensure safe and proper op-
eration of your lawn mower, all parts and
hardware you assemble must be tight-
ened securely. Use the correct tools as
necessary to ensure proper tightness. All
parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
1/2" Wrench
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in mowing position.
2. Insert bolt through handle and bracket
and secure with nut. A 1/2" wrench will
be required.
3. Remove protective padding, raise up-
per handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
4. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual.
MOWING
POSITION
Lower handle
LIFT
UP
Operator
presence
control bar
Bolt Nut
Bracket
Upper
handle
LIFT
UP
Handle
knob
INSTALL STARTER ROPE
1. Loosen T-knob.
2. Hold control bar against upper handle.
3. Slowly pull engine starter rope out until
rope will slip into loop of rope guide.
4. Tighten T-knob.
Upper handle
Control bar
Engine
starter rope
Rope guide T-Knob
39
1022
7
358
842
868
1472
163
623
12
3
20
163
121
104
617
623
137
105
850
217
188
222
202
356
209
23
332
668
78
37
455
MODEL NUMBER 8P502-0110-F1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
Engine Power Rating Information
The gross power rating for individual gas engine models is labeled in accordance with SAE
(Society of Automotive Engineers) code J1940 (Small Engine Power & Torque Rating Procedure),
and rating performance has been obtained and corrected in accordance with SAE J1995 (Revision
2002-05). Torque values are derived at 3060 RPM; horsepower values are derived at 3600 RPM.
Actual gross engine power will be lower and is affected by, among other things, ambient operat-
ing conditions and engine-to-engine variability. Given both the wide array of products on which
engines are placed and the variety of environmental issues applicable to operating the equipment,
the gas engine will not develop the rated gross power when used in a given piece of power equip-
ment (actual “on-site” or net power). This difference is due to a variety of factors including, but not
limited to, accessories (air cleaner, exhaust, charging, cooling, carburetor, fuel pump, etc.), ap-
plication limitations, ambient operating conditions (temperature, humidity, altitude), and engine-to-
engine variability. Due to manufacturing and capacity limitations, Briggs & Stratton may substitute
an engine of higher rated power for this Series engine.

38
300
832
836
613
972
601
187
305
770
455
60
58
608
78
37
304
163
125
1127
617
623
724
133
975
104
117
118
137
105
MODEL NUMBER 8P502-0110-F1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
7
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself
with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future refer-
ence.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
Operator presence control bar
Starter
handle
Handle knob
Engine oil cap
with dipstick Air filter
Wheel adjuster
(on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis-
sion. WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar – must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Starter handle – used for starting engine.
Primer– pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Mulcher door – allows conversion to
discharging operation.
Muffler
Mulcher door Housing
OPERATION
Spark plug
Primer
NOTE: Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable for use in this machine.
The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
Gasoline filler cap

8
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN
MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
Engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. It is not adjust-
able.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit
your requirements. Medium position is
best for most lawns.
• To change cutting height, squeeze ad-
juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements.
Be sure all wheels are in the same set-
ting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
LEVER BACKWARD TO
LOWER MOWER
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER
Plate tab
Lever
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects
thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your
lawnmower orperformingany adjustmentsorrepairs. Werecom-
mend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask over spectacles.
Use ear
protec-
tors to
avoid
damage to hearing.
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to side
discharging:
• Open mulcher door and install dis-
charge deflector under door as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching operation, dis-
charge deflector must be removed and
mulcher door must be closed.
Open mulcher door
Discharge deflector
MOWER IS NOW READY
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING
OPERATION
37
875
968
535
11
1395
163
13
1026
1029
45
7
36
35
155 33
34
40
5
868
1029A 192
40
163
623
1022
914
1022
1023
238
238
830
976
850
337
635
623
493
1238
122
318
729
MODEL NUMBER 8P502-0110-F1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE

36
48 133013291036
24
26
718
27
1
3
25
28
46
16
20
12
4
1264
505
616
562
615
227
1263
22
404
718
22A
741
32
29
27
43
598
522
1472
745 745A
621
922
923
334
333
635
MODEL NUMBER 8P502-0110-F1
BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE
9
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. For type and grade of oil to
use, see “ENGINE” in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler
on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
3. You receive a container of oil with the
unit. Slowly pour the entire container
down the oil fill spout into the engine.
NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 14 oz.
due to residual oil in engine from the
manufacturers 100% quality testing.
When changing oil you may need 16 oz.
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.
IMPORTANT:
• Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions. See “TO
CHANGE ENGINE OIL” in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler
neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline with a mini-
mum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with
gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities
that can be used within 30 days to as-
sure fuel freshness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
Engine oil cap Gasoline filler cap
Primer
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or meth-
anol) can attract moisture which leads to
separation and formation of acids during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage. To
avoid engine problems, the fuel system
should be emptied before storage of 30
days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the prod-
uct and should be considered normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an
engine which has already run for a few
minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
Operator
presence
control bar
Starter
handle
Primer

10
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See “CLEANING” in the
Maintenance section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into
the grass and not be noticed. Also,
the mulched grass will biodegrade
quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be
exposed to direct sunlight.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown
it will be necessary to raise the height
of cut to reduce pushing effort and to
keep from overloading the engine and
leaving clumps of mulched grass. For
extremely heavy grass, reduce your
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a sec-
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to
the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
MOWING TIPS
CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower. Such
attachments are hazardous, will damage
your mower and could void your warranty.
• Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the
lawn mower over the area a second
time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For side discharge lawn mowers, cut-
ting in a counter-clockwise direction,
starting at the outside of the area to
be cut, spreads grass clippings more
evenly and puts less load on the en-
gine. To keep clippings off of walkways,
flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in
a clockwise direction.
MAX 1 / 3
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-
come filled with dirt and dust with use
and catchers will collect less grass. To
prevent this, regularly hose catcher off
with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
35
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER 917.372900
KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION
1 194176X428 Control Bar 2 447814X479 Upper Handle 3 580638602 Bar, Lower Handle 4 581902101 Rope Guide 5 581912601 T-Knob 6 191574 Handle Bolt 7 66426 Wire Tie 9 154132 Hinge Bracket 10 165754 Mulcher Door 11 440934 Engine Zone Control Cable 12 178848 Hex Washer Head Screw 13 429930X004 Up-Stop Bracket 14 182398 Handle Knob 15 12000032 Klip Ring 18 17600406 Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8 19 401174X004 Axle Arm Assembly, Front, LH 20 401175X004 Axle Arm Assembly, Front, RH 21 416860 Kit, Rear Skirt 22 401621X004 Selector Spring, Front 25 581714502 Handle Bracket Assy., LH 26 581714602 Handle Bracket Assy., RH 28 407499X005 Wheel Adjuster Bracket, LH 29 407500X005 Wheel Adjuster Bracket, RH 30 401629 Spacer
31 165760 Discharge Deflector 32 401623X004 Selector Spring, Rear 33 87877 Selector Knob 34 401173X004 Axle Arm Assembly, Rear, LH 35 426589 Locknut, Hex 36 401638 Shoulder Bolt 37 501132301 Wheel & Tire Assembly, Front, 7 x 1-3/4" 41 194186 Hinge Screw 45 150406 Screw, Hex Head, Threaded, Rolled 3/8-16 x 1 46 182166 Danger Decal 47 73800500 Locknut, Hex 5/16-18 49 193909X460 Wheel & Tire Assembly, Rear, 8 x 1-3/4" 51 147286 Hinge Rod 52 581708312 Kit, Lawn Mower Housing (Includes Key Number 46) 53 851084 Screw, Hex Head, Grade 8 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 54 850263 Helical Lockwasher 55 851074 Hardened Washer 56 406712 21" Blade 57 581547901 Blade Adapter 58 152124 Hinge Spring
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches. 1 inch = 25.4 mm
IMPORTANT: Use only Original Equipment Manufacturer (O.E.M.) replacement parts. Failure to do so could be hazardous, damage your lawn mower and void your warranty.
59 - - - Engine, Briggs & Stratton, Model Number 8P502- 0110-F1 (See Breakdown) 61 409148 Locknut, Hex, Flanged 62 73800400 Locknut, Hex 1/4-20 73 401630 Washer, Curved, Cylindrical 74 851201X004 Washer, Special, Engine 76 589416801 Baffle, Rear 77 17411312 Screw, Rear Baffle 83 428501 Baffle, Front 84 17000510 Bolt, Hex Washer Head, Serrated, Semi-Gimlet Point 5/16-18 87 437516 Plug, Handle Bar 88 586212501 Bolt, Hex Head 89 73970500 Nut, Hex - - 581276301 Bag of Parts (Includes Key Numbers 88 and 89) - - 182191 Warning Decal (not shown) - - 589801201 Owner’s Manual Available accessories not included with mower: - - 71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 Gallon Container) - - 71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer - - 71 33000 SAE 30W Oil (20 Ounce Bottle)
KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION